Resources for Parents
At some point in your Gustie's time on campus, you may receive this letter:
"Although the College does not routinely contact parents when their student is found to have broken College policies, we will do so when the student has been found responsible for a serious violation or has repeated violations of College policy. We notify parents because at this level, your student has jeopardized his/her status with the College.
Because we believe that parents share a deep concern with us for the growth and development of our students, I am sending you a copy of a letter sent to (your child's name) concerning his/her violation of College policy. I invite you to discuss this matter with him/her and request your assistance in helping him/her understand the importance of compliance with College regulations. "
What do you do now? Here are some tips and tools for discussing alcohol use with your child.
Tips for talking with your student about substance use
Approaching the subject of substance use with your student can be difficult. Below are some tips that can help prepare you for this conversation:
- Let them know that you want to have a conversation about substance use and set up a time that will be free of distractions and will allow ample time to talk.
- Letting them know what you want to talk with them about will decrease defensiveness that could be present if they are caught off guard and thrown into the discussion without their own time to prepare.
- Start by encouraging an open, honest conversation.
- Stay calm and focused.
- Approach it with sense of curiosity and interest, rather than accusation and fear.
- Be honest about what you do and do not know.
- Ask your student what their views and concerns of substance use are and listen respectfully to what they have to say. Share your views and concerns of substance use and ask that they listen to you with the same amount of respect you just showed them.
- Remember to keep the conversation meaningful and balanced so that he or she knows where you stand yet feels empowered to make positive choices.
Talking points:
- What is the using culture like in your social group?
- If you could change anything about this, what would it be?
- Do you feel comfortable with the amount of substance use that you see and/or engage in?
- What do you feel is safe/appropriate use of substances?
Useful Links